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Freelance Laser Optics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quantinuum

Advanced Laser Engineer - 876

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$132K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Participate in a team of laser scientists and optical engineers supporting the development and builds of commercial and research systems for quantum computing * Provide technical expertise to laser ...

Aetherflux

Optical Engineer, Lasers and Photonics

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Optics team is looking for a Laser & Photonics Engineer to design and build the next generation communication backbone to our orbital datacenters. This role requires hands-on experience with fiber ...

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

PhD in Science or Engineering, preferably with Major in Physics * 10+ years' experience with lasers, optics, imaging systems * Working knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical ...

ARA

Senior Laser Engineer 2

San Antonio, TX · On-site

The Senior Laser Engineer 2 will lead the design, development, and execution of advanced laser and optical experiments in a controlled laboratory environment. This position focuses on applied ...

Fusion Energy Base

Director of Optical Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... for laser beamlines, diagnostics, adaptive optics systems, beam transport systems and related subsystems. * Work with science, systems engineering, and laser teams to derive, allocate and manage ...

Attalon, Inc.

Sr. Principal Laser Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$102K - $182K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser ...

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

PhD in Science or Engineering, preferably with Major in Physics * 10+ years' experience with lasers, optics, imaging systems * Working knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical ...

Ara

Senior Laser Engineer 2

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Senior Laser Engineer 2 will lead the design, development, and execution of advanced laser and optical experiments in a controlled laboratory environment. This position focuses on applied ...

Aetherflux

Optical Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Lasers & Optics team is looking for an Optical Engineer to design and build the free-space optical path for our next generation laser communications system. This role spans the transmitter beam ...

HII

Electro-Optics Engineer - 28606-Crane,Indiana

Plainville, IN · On-site

$101K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Electro-Optics Engineer will provide advanced engineering, research, development, test, and ... Execute laboratory, field, and range testing for lasers, visual augmentation systems, multi-sensor ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Laser Safety Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

The Laser Safety Engineer owns end-to-end laser safety by design. The work sits at the architecture ... It covers heterogeneous setups on optical tables and off them, in rack-mounted chassis and on free ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Laser Safety Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

The Laser Safety Engineer owns end-to-end laser safety by design. The work sits at the architecture ... It covers heterogeneous setups on optical tables and off them, in rack-mounted chassis and on free ...

Xcimer Energy

Director of Optical Engineering

Denver, CO

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Director of Optical Engineering you will lead the department which staffs the design ... for laser beamlines, diagnostics, adaptive optics systems, beam transport systems, and related ...

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All JobsLaser Optics Engineer JobsFreelance Laser Optics Engineer Jobs

Freelance Laser Optics Engineer information

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$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do freelance laser optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance laser optics engineer in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance laser optics engineer do?

A Freelance Laser Optics Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical systems that use lasers for various applications, such as telecommunications, medical devices, manufacturing, and scientific research. Working independently or on a contract basis, they may consult with clients, create custom optical solutions, and troubleshoot complex laser systems. Their responsibilities often include simulation, prototyping, and ensuring that designs meet performance and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance laser optics engineer?

To succeed as a Freelance Laser Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, physics, and laser systems, typically supported by a relevant degree and hands-on project experience. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like Zemax or LightTools, and industry standards for laser safety and alignment is essential. Excellent problem-solving, self-management, and client communication skills help you manage projects independently and build lasting professional relationships. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering precise technical solutions, ensuring safety, and maintaining a competitive edge in a specialized, client-driven field.

What is the difference between Freelance Laser Optics Engineer vs Freelance Optical Engineer?

AspectFreelance Laser Optics EngineerFreelance Optical Engineer
CredentialsSpecialized in laser optics, often requires optics or physics backgroundBroader optics knowledge, may include imaging, fiber optics, and general optical systems
Work EnvironmentPrimarily labs, research facilities, or client sites for laser system developmentVaries from labs to manufacturing, consulting, or design projects
Industry UsageCommon in laser manufacturing, research, and defense sectors

While both roles involve optical system design and testing, Freelance Laser Optics Engineers specialize in laser-specific applications, whereas Freelance Optical Engineers have a broader scope. The choice depends on the project focus and required expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance laser optics engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance laser optics engineers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple client projects simultaneously, staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, and securing consistent work. To address these, effective time management and clear communication with clients are crucial. Additionally, investing in ongoing professional development and networking within the optics community can help freelancers stay competitive and find new opportunities. Building a strong portfolio and seeking client feedback can also enhance credibility and lead to repeat business.
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Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Laser Optics Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Advanced Laser Engineer - 876

Quantinuum

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$132K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

We are seeking an Advanced Laser Engineer for our Broomfield, CO location
Key Responsibilities:
  • Participate in a team of laser scientists and optical engineers supporting the development and builds of commercial and research systems for quantum computing
  • Provide technical expertise to laser and optical projects with the goal of maximizing performance and robustness
  • Mentor team members on technical and scientific topics and day-to-day oversight and guidance of one or more technicians
  • Integrate complex, high precision optical sub-assemblies into higher level systems and maintain them
  • Gather technical requirements, turn them into action plans, and ensure the components and systems meet the requirements
  • Integrate complex, high precision optical sub-assemblies into higher level systems and maintain them
  • Troubleshoot as well as conduct failure analysis of electro-optical-mechanical systems to improve process and design
  • Collect and analyze data to improve subsystem robustness and key performance parameters
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, and Scientists to deliver state-of-the-art optics solutions
  • Implement tooling and test fixtures to improve alignment and characterization capabilities for complex laser and optical systems.
  • Participate in manufacturability improvements by documenting build and test procedures for optical assemblies
  • Manufacture robust optical systems and beamlines for integration into quantum computers
  • Other duties as assigned

YOU MUST HAVE:
  • Bachelors Degree required
  • Minimum 8+ years' experience (advanced degree inclusive) using and maintaining optical, opto-mechanical and/or laser systems
  • Due to Contractual requirements, must be a U.S. Person. defined as, U.S. citizen permanent resident or green card holder, workers granted asylum or refugee status
  • Due to national security requirements imposed by the U.S. Government, candidates for this position must not be a People's Republic of China national or Russian national unless the candidate is also a U.S. citizen.

WE VALUE:
  • Ph.D. or Masters in Optics, Physics, Applied Physics, or related field preferred
  • Experience characterizing, stabilizing, and servicing diode, fiber, and/or Ti:Sapphire lasers
  • Experience with Zemax and/or Solidworks/CAD for designing optical and optomechanical systems
  • Experience with data analysis (taking, plotting, analyzing, fitting and interpreting relevant data from optical testing experiments)
  • Experience with engineering change documentation; ability to work from assembly drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, sketches and other written, visual and oral instructions
  • Significant experience measuring and optimizing phase noise of RF and laser systems
  • Significant experience successfully working critical laser and beamline deliverables for operating commercial systems under tight deadlines and in a rapid-paced team setting
  • Significant experience fiber fusion splicing, as well as mentoring, and teaching other team members fusion splicing techniques
  • An excellent worth ethic and demonstrated experience as a collaborative teammate
  • A demonstrated history of mentoring junior scientists, engineers, and technicians
  • Broad understanding of optical principles and practices and intimate knowledge and experience applying this knowledge to projects

$132,000 - $165,000 a year
Compensation & Benefits:
The pay range for this role is $132,000 - $165,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range may vary based on the candidate's skills, educational background, professional experience, and unique qualifications for the role.
Quantinuum is the world leader in quantum computing. The company's quantum systems deliver the highest performance across all industry benchmarks. Quantinuum's over 650 employees, including 400+ scientists and engineers, across the US, UK, Germany, and Japan, are driving the quantum computing revolution.
By uniting best-in-class software with high-fidelity hardware, our integrated full-stack approach is accelerating the path to practical quantum computing and scaling its impact across multiple industries.
By joining Quantinuum, you'll be at the forefront of this transformative revolution, shaping the future of quantum computing, pushing the limits of technology, and making the impossible possible.
What's in it for you?
A competitive salary and innovative, game-changing work
Flexible work schedule
Employer subsidized health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) match for student loan repayment benefit
Equity, 401k retirement savings plan + 12 Paid holidays and generous vacation + sick time
Paid parental leave
Employee discounts
Quantinuum is an equal opportunity employer. You will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status. Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, there is no application deadline for this position.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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